How to pick out dining room windows

You could argue that the dining room is one of the simplest rooms in the home. Its purpose is to provide a place to dine. And yet, the reality is probably more complex. With more living taking place inside the home than ever before, this might be a dynamic space where your kids do their homework in the evenings, you take virtual meetings during the day, and you retreat to plan meals and place a weekly grocery order on Sunday mornings. 

However you use your dining room, your windows can shape how it feels to be there. We’ll explain what you need to know to pick out the best windows for this room. 

With the rise of open concept floorplans, some homes no longer feature separate dining rooms. Instead, there might be a dining table integrated into the larger space. In a space like this, large windows are particularly impactful — think oversized windows, particularly floor-to-ceiling windows. Floor-to-ceiling windows can be created in several ways:

• Picture windows would be the most typical approach to creating floor-to-ceiling windows. The advantage of these windows is that they are the most energy-efficient window type. But if you want the ability to let in fresh air too, combination units might be the answer. A great option would be joined picture and awning windows, which give you modern flair.
• Patio doors are a practical way to create a floor-to-ceiling effect while also adding in outdoor access. Gliding patio doors will give the sleekest look — perfect for a modern home. And if you select an A-Series Gliding Patio Door with contemporary panels, it can be up to 10 feet tall! 
• MultiGlide™ and Folding Outswing Doors are two of our oversized patio door options. They can fill a whole wall with glass while also offering the ability to combine indoor and outdoor spaces, so they’re especially impactful when your dining room and outdoor living spaces are next to each other. MultiGlide Doors can be automated so they open with the touch of a button, and they can pocket (recess into the wall). Folding Outswing Doors maximize the opening by folding neatly to one side and work well in a remodel because they run on a single track.

Bright and airy or intimate and moody? Either way, the amount of light your windows let in can help play a role. Here are some levers you can pull to create the right mood for your space.

• What direction should your dining room windows face? If the primary function of your dining room is to provide a space to dine, chances are you’ll be using it in the evening when the sun is in the western sky. To maximize natural light during this time, you’d want to concentrate windows on the western wall. Yet another option that might be worth considering, especially if you’re planning to use the room as a work or study space during the day, is maximizing northern light. This is because it will stay consistent all day long. Since the sun comes from the south in the northern hemisphere, light from the north is always filtered. 
• What finish or color do you want for your window frames and trim? Selecting white windows with window trim painted to match is one way to create a bright and airy look. But if you prefer the look of black windows, you could paint your window trim white to lighten the overall feeling or skip the trim and use a drywall return. For a bold statement, you could select black windows with black painted trim to match. And don’t forget about other moody shades, like dark bronze or a dark stained wood. If you’re looking for the most color and finish options, check out our E-Series product line, which has more than 50 color options.